Abstract
· Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine allergic responses to clonidine hydrochloride 0.25% in glaucoma patients with proven allergic reaction to apraclonidine 0.5%. · Methods: Fifteen consecutive glaucoma patients with allergic reaction to apraclonidine were prospectively challenged with clonidine hydrochloride 0.25% and evaluated for recurrence of allergic reactions and efficacy of treatment. Intraocular pressure (IOP), conjunctival hyperemia, blood pressure and resting pulse rate were determined at baseline and after 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. · Results: None of the patients developed ocular allergic reaction during 12 months on clonidine therapy. Blood pressure and pulse rate did not change significantly with clonidine treatment. Clonidine caused a significant reduction of IOP from baseline. In one patient, topical clonidine caused fatigue, dizziness and dry mouth. · Conclusion: Clonidine did not cause allergic reaction in patients with proven allergy to apraclonidine, indicating that there is no cross-reactivity with apraclonidine. Due to the small series, however, we cannot assume that allergy will not occur with clonidine 0.25% given time and a larger number of patients.
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Received: 21 January 1999 Revised: 28 June 1999 Accepted: 29 July 1999
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Geyer, O., Schmidt, K., Pianka, P. et al. Clonidine provides an allergy-free alternative in glaucoma patients with proven allergy to apraclonidine. Graefe's Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 238, 149–152 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1007/PL00007883
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/PL00007883